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Vatican Faces Unprecedented Decision on Convicted Cardinal's Conclave Participation

Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, convicted of fraud in 2023, pushes to vote in the papal conclave despite his designation as a 'non-elector' and pending appeal.

Overview

  • Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, convicted of embezzlement and fraud in 2023, was sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison but retains his cardinal title.
  • Becciu has been listed as a 'non-elector' by the Vatican, effectively barring him from voting in the upcoming conclave, though he insists no explicit decree excludes him.
  • The 76-year-old cardinal, who meets the age requirement for voting, has launched an appeal of his conviction, which is still under review.
  • The final decision on Becciu's eligibility to vote will be made by senior Vatican officials, including the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, and Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
  • This case highlights broader tensions within the Church regarding governance, financial accountability, and procedural clarity in papal elections following Pope Francis' reforms.